The year is 2719 in the futuristic city of Metropolis, and “android No. 57821, other wise known as Cindy Mayweather,” is on the lam for falling in love with a human. Sci-fi is the theme behind Janelle Monae’s epic EP “Metropolis: The Chase Suite (Special Edition),” sounding as if it could be the score to a major Hollywood or Broadway blockbuster. 

The starlet whom Diddy said “is one of the most important signings of my career,” reached into her imagination to create a musically spellbinding odyssey complete with cyborgs, electro-daggers and other galactic references. “March of the Wolfmasters” sonically sets the tone for the mini-movie, bringing the characters to life and the audio-imagery into viewing mode. The rock-gospel production and power of Janelle Monae’s voice on “Violet Stars Happy Hunting!” is sure to ignite the inner funk in many earthlings. Lush with pounding drums, haunting organ notes, and ominous horns, the musicality of “Many Moons” and “Sincerely, Jane” hint at the Kansas native’s (how appropriate a hometown) performing arts and musical theatre background, as the latter song also reflects her socially conscious side. 

“Metropolis” isn’t the run-of-the-mill record you listen to—it’s the kind of record you experience. 

Label: Wondaland Arts Society/Bad Boy Records

Genre: R&B/Soul